The titular Arcadia is founded on utopian ideals. The cultural tumult of 1960s through 1970s America inspires people like Hannah and Abe to remove themselves from society and create a more peaceful environment. Arcadia is built on principles of radical autonomy, veganism, free love, lack of individual possession, and lack of hierarchy. However, the practice of utopia is more difficult than the theory of utopia. As Gloria, an Amish librarian, later points out, Arcadia was destined to fail because the members were incapable of fending for themselves. They believed they could create a microcosm of society that was good, but struggled to farm and ultimately destroyed themselves. Handy, the unofficial leader of Arcadia, violates his own principles by creating hierarchy and living for his own pleasure. Meanwhile, the rest of the members work hard and sacrifice for the good of the community. This imbalance leads to hunger and poverty, endangering the community, especially the children.

The utopian ideal of radical autonomy is idyllic but unrealistic. Humans, left to their own devices, often turn to pleasure—especially without risk of punishment. The drug use and sex lives of Arcadians are countercultural reactions to conservative America. However, these activities endanger the community, especially children like Bit.